NEW ORLEANS – The French Quarter Management District (FQMD) shared it has repaired nearly 500 streetlights in the French Quarter, enhancing safety, appearance and livability in the historic neighborhood. The organization says the $1.75 million project, in cooperation with The City of New Orleans, embodies the FQMD’s mission to make the French Quarter a better place to live, work and visit.
“Streetlight repair and French Quarter safety go hand in hand,” said Michelle Courseault, executive director of the French Quarter Management District. “We’re excited to light up the French Quarter so we can more safely enjoy our walks home, to work or to one of our legendary French Quarter destinations.”
FQMD will also maintain the streetlights through early 2026.
The repair program began in November of 2024 when FQMD assessed 945 individual streetlights in the French Quarter. FQMD also trimmed trees near the streetlights on Esplanade Avenue and cleaned streetlight lenses where needed. To replace broken and missing century-old iron arms on the streetlamps, FQMD turned to other southern cities with historic neighborhoods who could supply these rare parts, including St. Petersburg, Florida.
Funding from the project comes from the French Quarter Economic Development District Trust, which is fueled by a .2495% sales tax applied to all food, beverage and other consumer purchases in the French Quarter. Called “A Quarter for The Quarter,” this sales tax affects mostly tourists and is up for voter renewal in November of 2025; only French Quarter residents can vote on the issue.
“The French Quarter is a historic and cultural treasure, but it’s also home to residents and workers who deserve safe, well-lit streets,” said Councilmember Freddie King III, whose District C includes the French Quarter. “This lighting project is an important step toward a better-lit city, and I remain committed to addressing similar needs across all of District C to ensure every neighborhood receives the attention it deserves.”
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